Top Remedies for Skin Problems Learn which skin home remedies work best to help you care for and protect your child’s skin.
Colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is ground up into a fine powder that “soothes inflamed skin,” says Andrea Cambio, MD, of Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in Cape Coral, Fla. “It can be used for some itchy conditions, like poison ivy and eczema.“Hydrocortisone cream. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can be used for inflammatory skin conditions, Dr. Cambio says. But check with your child’s physician to make sure it is safe to use, since it can make certain skin conditions worse.Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer. If your child’s skin is dry, a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and intended for sensitive skin will be among the best skin remedies in your arsenal. “Creams and ointments work better when the skin is very dry,” says Cambio. “Lotions tend to be lighter and better during warmer months.“Fragrance-free bath oil. Bath oils can counteract the drying effects of long baths, says Cambio. But be careful when using them: “It can cause the bathtub to become slippery, so I suggest putting it on after a bath or shower, to be safe.“Cool-mist humidifier. A humidifier is one of the best remedies for skin, since it can help add moisture to a room during dry winter months. “Moist skin is less likely to become itchy and sensitive,” says Cambio. Use a cool-mist humidifier, since hot-water vaporizers can cause serious burns. Clean and dry the humidifier daily to prevent contamination with bacteria or mold.Petroleum jelly. It can be used to help heal dry, chapped skin. “Petroleum jelly is considered an emollient,” says Cambio. “It helps to trap moisture in the skin, thus hydrating it.” Petroleum jelly also can help with diaper rash, since it can serve as a barrier between the diaper and the skin.Sunscreen. It is important to get kids in the habit of wearing sunscreen when they are young because it prevents skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.Ice. “Ice is very good to help with the itch associated with many childhood rashes, including bug bites,” says Cambio, who recommends putting the ice in a zippered plastic bag. But “always check with your doctor if the rash is spreading or is accompanied by a fever.“Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic laundry detergent. For sensitive skin irritated by fragrances and chemicals, using a laundry detergent that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic may help.Gentle soap. To reduce the risk of skin problems, children should use a soap that is fragrance-free and does not contain irritating ingredients.
Relief doesn’t have to be expensive. These easy and inexpensive remedies will work to soothe your child and keep skin healthy.
